Advantages of Using SFP Plus
SFP+ Transceivers are the upgraded version of the former SFP transceivers (mini GBIC), with higher data rate and new industrial standards. It is smaller than any of the currently shipping form factors and offers a very high density per line card. The SFP+ transceiver module was introduced to expand the capabilities of the SFP optics product family. This new SFP provides interconnects up to 10 Gb/s. It's compatible with the Small Form-Factor (SFF) specification, which supports 8G Fiber Channel and 10G Ethernet applications. In this paper, we are going to introduce the advantages and disadvantages and find out whether they will work for your application or not. The following figure shows a Cisco 10GBASE-SR SFP module:
Advantages of SFP+ Transceiver
SFP+ optics System Supports Data Rates Up to 10 Gb/s
SFP+ optics system will support faster data rates than SFP interconnect systems. This is one of the major benefits of SFP+. It is a popular industry format supported by many network component vendors. Most designers are pleased with the performance of the device at these speeds.
SFP+ Supports Data Rates Up to 16 Gbit/s Fibre Channel
SFP+ transceiver supports 8 Gbit/s Fibre Channel, 10 Gigabit Ethernet and Optical Transport Network standard OTU2. Although the SFP+ standard doesn't include mention of 16G Fibre Channel it can be used at this speed. These faster SFP+ devices are already available on the market. Actually, one of the SFP+ devices supports data rates up to 16 Gb/s. This is a welcome addition to those who need faster data transmission than the traditional SFP+ supports.
SFP+ is Backwards Compatible with SFP
If you still have some solutions with SFP, SFP+ is backwards compatible and will compatible with this device.
Heat Sink is Optional for Single Port Cages
Though heat dissipation is a primary concern of SFP+ devices, it is optional for single port cages. It becomes an additional advantage for people considering these devices.
Both EMI Spring and Gasket Options for Cages Provide Excellent Shielding
Both EMI spring and gasket options for cages provide excellent shielding for SFP+ devices. This is an another major advantage of this specific device.
SFP+ Transceiver is More Cost-Effective
SFP+ optical transceivers have potential to reduce costs on the condition to guarantee the performance is not lost on other existing modules. The cost reduction from two aspects, the first is a small area can eliminate extra silicon costs. The second is a simple design and testing can reduce production costs. This will make the SFP+ become an affordable with higher quality Gigabit ethernet transceiver. For instance, Cisco 10G SR SFP only $18.
SFP+ Can Be Used for Various Applications
These devices can be used for Various applications including storage, servers, network interface cards (NICs), networking, switches, routers, and hubs.
Disadvantages of SFP+ Transceiver
SFP+ transceivers Can Be Outshined by Other Solutions
There are several more efficient solutions available for transceivers. These solutions range from 1.25 to 1.5 watts for each port. The traditional SFP+ transceivers can be used in long-reach applications and short-reach applications of 1 watt or less.
The heat and EMI Emissions Problems
The heat and EMI emissions are one of the biggest problems related to these devices, but there are safeguards integrated to prevent this issue from occurring.
Needs a Robust Connector to Withstand the Heat
A robust connector is required to withstand the significant heat temperatures. Even with heat sinks and a robust connector, the device cannot withstand temperatures above 70 degrees Celsius.
The advantages of using SFP+ modules outweigh the disadvantages, but it's important to know the limitations of the device before making a purchase. Review the limitations and test it with your application to determine if it will work for you. You'll be surprised at how powerful the SFP+ application really is when it's applied properly.
Several industrial acknowledged standards for SFP plus has been released for 10Gpbs networks, including 10GBASE-SR, 10GBASE-LR, 10GBASE-LRM. If you want to know more about 10GBASE-SR SFP module and 10GBASE-LR SFP module price please visit our website.